Updated: 6/20/2007 1:38:44 PM
Miss Ellie: The Chinese Crested Hairless dog is a contestant in the World's Ugliest Dog contest. Right now, Miss Ellie fasces some ruff competitors. You can go to the Comedy Canines website and they'll link you to the website to vote for Miss Ellie.
She also is featured in The Comedy Barn's Comedy Canine show.
Swimming Cat:
In early May, the chips were down for Chip the cat.
His owners woke up and found the kitty couldn't walk.
His regular veterinarian referred him to the UT College of Veterinary Medicine as an emergency case to try to find out what was wrong-but more importantly-to try to fix the problem.
Chip, the 6 year old cat, had suddenly lost the ability to move his hind legs and he couldn't feel pain.
After UT veterinarians performed physical exams and took radiographs as well as a myelogram, Chip was diagnosed with a ruptured disc compressing the lower section of his spinal cord. He was taken to surgery immediately to relieve the pressure on his spinal cord.
Chip's recovery from the procedure was uneventful, and he demonstrated dramatic improvement over the course of his 6 days of hospitalization.
During that time, Chip swam (life jacket and all) twice a day. The swimming allowed him to use his hind legs without weight.
Neurologically, the movement in the water mimics a more natural movement of limbs while retraining muscles and reeducating nerves. To some extent, walking in water will also help correct gait abnormalities.
By the time Chip was discharged from the hospital he had regained sensation and voluntary movement in his pelvic limbs and was walking without assistance.
Knoxville By Cycle Summer Rides
Bicycle rides for all ages and skill levels begin June 23 with an Ice cream social down at Market Square. Meet at 1pm for a ride to Bearden for ice cream (dutch treat). There will be a different themed ride each month. The event is organized by the Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization and the Smoky Mountain Wheelmen.
For more information call 215-3815 or visit the website linked with this story.
